HOT 100 2011: Jonathan Pressley

As we look forward to the Professional Jeweller Hot 100 2012 in association with The Company of Master Jewellers and supported by gold partner Ti Sento, we indulge in a bit of looking backwards to the leading lights of the jewellery industry that made it into the Hot 100 2011. Today we’re focusing on Ti Sento Retail Star Jonathan Pressley who left behind his life in North American to return to the UK and take over his family jewellery retail business Pressleys.

Jonathan Pressley might still be regarded by many as the new boy on the scene, but he’s bringing family-run Pressleys to the forefront of British jewellery retail with an innovative plan that is focused on more than just sales.

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Jonathan has a marketing background and returned to the UK 18 months ago after many years spent working in North America. Since his arrival back in Blighty he has transformed Pressleys three existing stores and opened a fourth in September last year called Pressley’s Etcetera, which focuses on fashion-led jewellery. Under Pressley’s management, his family business is a destination jeweller for Sussex.

“I’ve made sure our shops have an image and that the staff uphold it,” he says. “I constantly want to be the best and the amazing staff that I’ve employed are helping me with my vision.”

In less than a year, Jonathan says that Pressleys Etcetera in Worthing has become a cult shopping experience. “The figures we’re seeing are extraordinary,” he reveals.

As a man who admits he’s competitive by nature and strives for the best, Jonathan has a lot to be proud of already. Along with four stores and exceptional staff, he’s also become a father to baby Lara, born on the same day that he and the mayor opened Pressleys Etcetera in Chichester.

However, he says there is still much ahead of Pressleys. “I’ve been doing this for 18 months now but it pays to have big ears and a small mouth,” he explains. “Some people have thought me prudent but I just think it’s better to do a small number of things well than a lot badly.”

Jonathan believes that work, social life and health are of equal importance, and that a balance of the three makes for a happy person; something he looks for in his staff and therefore the vibe they then pass on to customers.

Though Jonathan claims to be a million miles from his goals, one thing is certain – he’s already travelling at light speed to get there.

This interview was taken from the Professional Jeweller Hot 100 2011. If you or someone you know has had a great business year and you think they could be hot enough to be part of the Professional Jeweller Hot 100 2012 book in association with The Company of Master Jewellers then email info@professionaljeweller.com with a list of business achievements over the past 12 months, clearly marking your email with the subject line "Hot 100 nomination". Categories for the Hot 100 2012 include Trendsetters, Ti Sento Retail Stars, Business Big Shots and NexGems.